Angling

World Class Fishing on the Lower Zambezi
Book Now
Catch the World's Premier Game Fish
It's Tiger Time!
Live the Angler's Dream
Enquire About Our Packages
Expert Guides, Big Catches, Stunning Scenery
View Our 2025/2026 Rates

Tiger Fishing on the Lower Zambezi & More!

Fishing on the Lower Zambezi offers one of the most exceptional freshwater angling experiences in the world, the highlight being the presence of the world’s premier game fish, the Tiger. The variety in the Zambezi, Hydrocynus vittatus, can grow up to 10 -12 Kg and is a superb fighter. For those seeking the ultimate angling adventure, the Lower Zambezi provides an unrivalled setting for Tiger fishing in Africa! Get in touch with us today to learn all about our angling experiences at Royal Zambezi Lodge.

Angling Adventures at Royal Zambezi Lodge

The best time for Tiger Fish is during March, April and during our hot months from September through to December. Expert resident guides take fishing excursions on fully-fitted aluminium boats. These excursions are part of our Zambezi tiger fishing packages, carefully designed to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing fishing getaway or an intense sport fishing challenge, our tailored angling trips ensure that every guest has the best opportunity to land some of Zambia’s best catches. For guests who are new to fishing or fly-fishing, our guides provide expert instruction and assistance. 

 

There are plenty of bream and chessa to catch or use as bait, as well as many varieties of catfish. You will certainly have a fight on your hands if you hook a Vundu (Bagrus Catfish), which can grow up to almost 100 lbs! Other species of interest are the Three Spot Bream, Red Breasted Bream, Niloticus Bream, Chessa, Nkupi, Bottlenose and the Cornish Jack. All of these species make Zambezi River fishing an exciting endeavour, offering a diverse range of catches for both seasoned and novice anglers! We enforce a strict catch & release policy at Royal. 

Our prime location, just outside the National Park, allows us the unique advantage of fishing in both the park and the Game Management Area (GMA). This provides access to a diverse range of fishing spots, ensuring an unparalleled experience on the Zambezi River.

As part of our angling trips, we provide top-quality fishing gear, tackle, and expert guides to make sure the most out of your time at Royal Zambezi Lodge. Our equipment is well-suited for a range of angling experiences including Tiger fishing, with medium-heavy action 20lb spinning or baitcasting rods/reels, wire leaders and high-quality sharp hooks paired with bright, shiny spinners and spoons. However, if you have personal gear you prefer to use, you’re welcome to bring it along – especially if you have specialised equipment tailored to your fishing style. Our goal is to provide everything you need for an unforgettable Zambian angling adventure!

 

Our experienced guides will take you to all the best fishing spots and guide you through the whole process. Their in-depth knowledge of the Zambezi River map ensures that you fish in the best angling spots in Zambia, maximising your chances of an exhilarating catch. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional angler, we can guarantee that catching one of these mighty fish is an experience you will never forget! Browse through our Tiger Fish images to get a glimpse of these spectacular catches and prepare for your own adventure. For the ultimate Tiger Fishing Zambezi experience, book your trip today and experience firsthand the thrill of reeling in one of the most powerful game fish in the world.

family fishing zambia
family fun fishing in zambia

Family Friendly Fishing on the Zambezi

Fishing at Royal Zambezi Lodge isn’t just for seasoned anglers – it’s a fantastic experience for the whole family! Whether you’re introducing your children to the world of angling on their first fishing adventure or enjoying a relaxing day on the river with loved ones – our expert angling guides cater to all ages and skill levels. The thrill of reeling in a catch, combined with the stunning Zambezi – makes it fun for all the family! Beyond fishing, families can enjoy breathtaking wildlife sightings, scenic boat cruises, and moments of pure tranquility on the water. Here are some images of families in action on the Zambezi!

  • Bait-casting rods (2) 6ft MH action
  • Spinning rods (2) 6ft MH action
  • NOTE – Casting or spinning rods, depending on your personal preference. Casting rods have been historically easier to cast and troll the large plugs, spinners and spoons needed to tempt tigerfish. Consider 2 or 3 piece travel rods for easy carry-on packing as opposed to cumbersome, 7 foot rod tubes.
  • Casting or spinning reels + spare: Should possess smooth drags and have capacity to handle 125 yards of 14-20lb abrasion resistant line.
  • Extra line (changing line is often necessary)
  • X 2 packs of 10 meter 30-40lb wire test leaders
  • X 30 Circle hooks size 5/0 and 6/0 Gamakatsu brand is recommended
  • X 30 Barrel swivels 40lb test
  • Due to catch and release policies we strongly recommend the use of circle hooks.
  • Fly rods (2) from 8wt to 10wt
  • Weight forward floating line
  • 300 and 400 sinking fly lines
  • Tippets 20lb and per your liking
  • Wire Leaders 30-40lbs
  • Spare backing, spare lines, extra leaders
  • Flies (at least 30): Clouser deep minnow, Lefty’s Deceivers, other Epoxy or weighted head baitfish pattern flies in the 2 to 4 inch range on 2/0 hooks in the following colours: Silver, silver & red, black & silver, orange, white, chartreuse, Yellow. Also add flashabou or similar as attractor to most flies

Tiger Fish Gallery - Hall of Fame!

tiger fishing zambia hall of fame

While the Tiger Fish is a popular catch in the Lower Zambezi, the river is also home to an incredible variety of other exciting species that offer great angling opportunities. There’s plenty to discover beyond the famed tiger!

Vundu (Bagras Catfish) 

If you’re after a true heavyweight, the Vundu is one of the largest fish in the Zambezi, growing up to nearly 100 lbs! These powerful catfish put up a serious battle, making them a rewarding catch for any angler. Fun fact: the Vundu catfish is so tough and slippery – that local legends say it can “walk” on land for short distances using its pectoral fins and tail to wiggle across damp ground! While not actually a ‘physical stroll’ – this ability helps it to survive in low-water conditions by moving between pools.

Bream Varieties

The Lower Zambezi is home to several species of bream – all bringing a different type of fishing experience. The Three Spot Bream, Red Breasted Bream and Niloticus Bream are all popular catches – known for their striking colours and delicious taste! The Three Spot Bream is a small and aggressive fighter, often caught in shallow waters. By contrast, the Red Breasted bream gets its name from its vibrant red-orange belly! It’s one of the most commonly caught bream on the Zambezi – making it a favourite among anglers. And if you’re looking for the biggest bream – go for the Niloticus Bream – the largest of the bream species in the Zambezi!

Chessa & Nkupi 

The two fish are both feisty fighters and are often targeted for sport fishing. Chessa, known for its silvery body is a common and exciting catch, while Nkupi (also known as Yellow-belly Bream) is highly prized for its strong runs and aggressive takes. 

Cornish Jack

A fascinating predator who only comes out at night, the Cornish Jack is a unique nocturnal species. It’s an intriguing addition to any keen angler’s list and can be spotted by its distinctive elongated body and sharp sense of touch. 

Bottlenose 

A lesser-known but exciting catch is the Bottlenose (not to be confused with the Dolphin!). It’s a robust freshwater species found in the deeper channels of the Zambezi. Fun fact – this fish is sometimes called the “elephant fish” because of it’s elongated trunk-like snout! If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch a Bottlenose up to around 10lbs and 70cm!

;

Your Details

Passenger Info